Mbu not growing

WyldFya

Baryancistrus demantoides
MFK Member
Dec 23, 2005
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I'll say this about keeping puffers. With proper water changes, and a good filter, a tank with a 6x3 footprint, and at least 24" in height will be fine for a MBU IME. However, a 1000 gallon tank wouldn't hurt if you can get one.
 

aclockworkorange

Polypterus
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Jun 24, 2010
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I'll say this about keeping puffers. With proper water changes, and a good filter, a tank with a 6x3 footprint, and at least 24" in height will be fine for a MBU IME. However, a 1000 gallon tank wouldn't hurt if you can get one.
Definitely. I wish all my fish could be housed in tanks much larger than they are in, but IMO they're in a healthy environment where they are for now. Although, I don't own a single fish that will ever grow much larger than 12".
 

knobhill

Redtail Catfish
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May 2, 2007
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thanks to the few who actually offered some advice. I will continue to do what I am doing. MODS--you may want to close this thread before a fist fight breaks out:)
 

knobhill

Redtail Catfish
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May 2, 2007
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update: he has grown about 1/2 - 1" this past month. Also getting more aggressive with his eating--taking bigger pieces and rushing to the food.
 

knobhill

Redtail Catfish
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May 2, 2007
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update: no real growth to report. Feeding, water quality, and h2o changes are all the same. Mbu is happy, active, and doesn't bother tank mates. I really think that the person who I got this fish from permanently stunted its growth. My mbu came with a flagtail prochilidous, who also hasn't grown. However, the growth rate on all the other fish in the tank is normal.
 

kevinfleming21

Jurassic Aquatics
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Jun 8, 2010
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Strange, could be genetics though. It might not be in the card for him to reach a "normal" size for an adult Mbu. I have had mine now for9 months. He was 3 inches when I got him and is now easily 14+ inches and also eclipsing my Fahaka puffer who is 17 inches.
 

knobhill

Redtail Catfish
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May 2, 2007
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Another update: I have had this guy for 15 months with almost no growth. He is still at about 6". I guess he is not destined to be a monster afterall.
 

Fat Homer

Mmmmm... Doughnuts
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Mar 16, 2009
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If i were to guess i would say stunted... Genetics i dont think keeps a fish that should reach average 27" down to 6"


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